Skills Development

Building skills opens doors to greater independence and confidence. Through hands-on experiences and engaging programs, DSANV helps individuals with Down syndrome develop everyday life skills, strengthen social connections, build self-confidence, and explore new interests. Whether learning to navigate daily routines, developing leadership abilities, or participating in recreational activities, every opportunity is designed to encourage personal growth and meaningful participation in the community.

  • Calling all DSANV Artists! We are offering adapted art classes.  All skill levels welcome! 

    Class Details

    • Inclusive art sessions such as mixed media projects and artist trading cards

    • Age Groups: Classes are split by age, including options for children, teens & adults (Ages 13+), and adults (Ages 18+)

    • Location & Partners: Recent classes have partnered with community spaces like the Dabble Creative Reuse Center and Art Factory Play Cafe

    Find upcoming events on our calendar! dsanv.org/eventcalendar

  • Dave’s Place at Dash and Scout provides an immersive independent living retreat designed to build key life skills and enhance practical problem-solving. Participants have the chance to practice:

    • Independent & Shared Living: Experience residing outside the family home while navigating shared dynamics with roommates.

    • Social Connections: Form lasting peer friendships while strengthening teamwork, conversational etiquette, personal boundaries, emotional expression, nonverbal cues, and stress coping tools.

    • Workplace & Daily Readiness: Gain core skills that translate directly into professional settings and foster self-sufficiency.

    • Home Management: Master daily household tasks, meal preparation, home maintenance basics, safety and emergency protocols, and daily decision-making.

    • Household Contribution: Take an active, responsible role in managing shared living spaces and group routines.

    • Leisure & Time Management: Practice organizing free time, coordinating social outings, managing schedules, and pursuing personal interests or hobbies.

    We are excited to collaborate with Dash and Scout to deliver these dedicated retreat experiences exclusively for the DSANV community.

    Stay tuned for our next openings!

    Questions? Please contact Laura Danner, Program Coordinator at programs@dsanv.org. 

Find Your Next Opportunity to Connect!

Whether you're looking for educational workshops, social gatherings, family events, wellness programs, or opportunities to build new skills, there's always something happening at DSANV. Explore our calendar to discover upcoming events, register for programs, and find meaningful ways to connect with our community throughout the year.